The New Smoke & Oak Pairing

Why We Created the Smoke & Oak Pairing
Two Spirits, One Story of Flavor, Rarity, and Balance

At PourMore, we’re always on the hunt for bottles that surprise us, delight us, and tell a story worth pouring. We're bringing special combinations of bottles to your attention outside of our normal subscription program - mostly because we wanted the freedom to promote little known options when we might only have a few dozen bottles total to share! The Smoke & Oak pairing is the result of that pursuit—extensive side-by-side evaluations to find two perfect combinations of mezcal and whiskey that complement each other in unforgettable ways.

We started with a non-negotiable: Ilegal Mezcal Añejo. Bold, smoky, and aged to perfection, it’s one of the most elegant agave spirits out there. Rich with notes of vanilla, tobacco, and dark chocolate, this mezcal brings complexity and depth to any glass—and it stands tall next to even the most revered whiskeys.

Then came the challenge: what do you pair with something that already has it all?

We went through dozens of potential pairings, spanning countries and casks. After much (very enjoyable) research, we landed on two standout options—and we couldn’t choose just one. So we didn’t.


Option One:

Ilegal Mezcal Añejo + Seahorse Mizunara Cask Japanese Whiskey
This duo is all about balance and beauty. The Seahorse Mizunara Cask is a stunning example of modern Japanese craftsmanship. Aged in rare Mizunara oak, it’s silky and subtly spiced, with flavors that bloom over time. And yes—the bottle itself is gorgeous. It’s the kind of piece that earns compliments before it’s even opened. Together with the smoky Ilegal, this pairing is ideal for someone who loves thoughtful sips and artful presentation. It’s a conversation piece in every sense.

Ilegal Mezcal Anejo paired with the beautiful Seahorze Mizunara Cask Japanese Whiskey

Option Two:

Ilegal Mezcal Añejo + Wild Turkey Distiller’s Reserve 12 Year
This pairing leans into richness and rarity. Wild Turkey 12 isn’t a bottle you stumble across—it's a collector’s favorite, often passed around only among those “in the know.” With deep notes of leather, toffee, and baking spice, it stands shoulder to shoulder with the layered heat of the mezcal. This pairing is perfect for the seasoned drinker who knows a great bottle when they taste one—and knows not to leave it on the shelf for long.

Ilegal Mezcal and Wild Turkey Distiller's Edition 12 Year Old Whiskey

Why These Bottles?

Because we could.
We tapped into our industry relationships to secure limited quantities of both whiskeys—at prices that you simply won’t find elsewhere. And more importantly, we genuinely believe these bottles deserve a place in every serious home bar. They’re not just great pairings on paper—they’re fun to drink, rich in heritage, and built to impress.

Whether you’re gifting to a spirits enthusiast or treating yourself to something extraordinary, the Smoke & Oak pairing delivers. It’s rare. It’s bold. And it’s exactly why we started PourMore in the first place—to help you discover bottles you’ll want to talk about (and drink again).